Without disrupting migratory paths, Sensoryscape remains a stopover for birds heading south

In the latest WiT Studio episode, we chat with Michael Ma, Assistant Chief Executive of Sentosa Development Corporation, to chat about the background and innovative digital aspects of Sentosa Sensoryscape, a key project under the Greater Sentosa Masterplan.

Initially conceptualised as a thoroughfare connecting the north and south of Sentosa, Sentosa Sensoryscape quickly evolved into an immersive experience that combines natural and digital elements, covering a length of about 350 meters and occupying an area equivalent to five football fields. Ma explained that the design, created by award-winning architects, features unique diagrid structures resembling Asian basket weaves. These structures, while open and airy, provide a sense of personal space to visitors.

The digital layer then adds another dimension to the experience, utilising augmented reality and light projection to enhance the sensory experience, especially at night. 

“We adopted universal designs that allow people free access, even for wheelchairs,” added Ma. “This is also pet-friendly as long as they are leashed, and what is also interesting about this is that this was designed with clear ideas about how to make sure that this can be enjoyed from the day across to the night; a journey through a series of six uniquely designed, sensory gardens.”

These sensory gardens, each catering to different senses, are Tactile Trellis, Scented Sphere, Symphony Streams, Palate Playground, and the Glow Garden. These gardens, along with the augmented reality experience delivered through the ImagineNights app, blend together to create a multisensory experience for visitors.

According to Ma, a key component of Sensoryscape has always been its sustainability factor. The diagrid architecture, for example, maintains structural rigidity while utilising less material. 

“For the daytime, we have a lower tier that is actually sheltered from direct sunlight,” explained Ma. “We utilise natural ventilation and some of the strategically placed fans to still make it a very enjoyable experience. Walking from the north to the south, or from the south to the north without having to utilise air conditioning, because we also believe in sustainability.”

In terms of ecology, Sentosa Sensoryscape boasts over 200 plant variants, including 100 native species, fostering a rich ecosystem within its walkways. Ma also emphasised the Sensoryscape’s location as a stopover point for migrating birds, ensuring that the project integrates with nature without disrupting migratory paths.

Probably the most pivotal role of Sensoryscape’s digital element is its ability to keep the attraction fresh without having to continuously change anything on a physical level. 

As Ma highlights, “We cannot be building new infrastructure over and over again, especially in Sentosa, where we really want to give the experience to the guests that it is still a very natural, very green area for them to come and enjoy the island. So while the big infrastructures will not refresh themselves frequently, the digital layer can be done.”

He added, “In fact, we have already started work in enhancing our current augmented reality offerings within Sensoryscape.”